Piedras Blancas Light StationOutstanding Natural Area

Animals

One of the benefits of native plant re-vegetation at Piedras Blancas Light Station is the increase in the numbers of native animals. From small creatures, like butterflies and bees, to larger ones, like bobcats and coyotes, the native vegetation offers food and habitat. One of the most amazing aspects of ecosystem recovery at Piedras Blancas is how quickly it occurred after the removal of non-native plants. Ecological balance has been restored to the Piedras Blancas Light Station.

The waters off Piedras Blancas boast an incredible number of marine mammals. Sea otters live and forage in the kelp. Harbor seals and sea lions rest on the offshore rocks. Elephant seals rest, molt, give birth and breed on the beaches. A variety of whales may be seen, including the California gray whale migrating offshore during the winter and spring. Many marine bird species roost on the large offshore rocks. The sight of pelicans passing by delights the visitor and the sounds of sea lions barking and elephant seals trumpeting fill the air.

For more information on elephant seals, check out the website of the Central Coast Friends of the Elephant Seal: http://www.elephantseal.org